POE, POC and AOC Differences?
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šµ POE (Power over Ethernet)
Definition:
- Power over Ethernet (POE) allows both power and data to be transmitted over a single Ethernet cable (Cat5e, Cat6, etc.), eliminating the need for separate power cables.
Common Usage:
- Used to power IP cameras, VoIP phones, wireless access points, network switches, and IoT devices.
Advantages:
- Reduces the need for separate power outlets.
- Simplifies installation and reduces cabling costs.
- Centralises power management.
Limitations:
- Limited power output (up to 90W with POE++).
- Cable length is generally limited to 100 metres (328 feet).
Example Devices:
- IP security cameras
- Wireless access points
- VoIP phones
š¢ POC (Power over Coax)
Definition:
- Power over Coax (POC) uses coaxial cables to transmit both power and data/video signals. It is commonly used in legacy CCTV systems where coaxial cables are already in place.
Common Usage:
- Primarily used in analog and HD analog CCTV systems (such as HD-TVI, HDCVI, AHD).
- Useful for upgrading legacy systems without rewiring.
Advantages:
- Utilises existing coaxial infrastructure, saving costs.
- Supports longer cable runs compared to POE (up to 500 metres or more).
- Provides both video and power over a single coax cable.
Limitations:
- Less common in modern IP-based systems.
- Not as flexible as Ethernet cabling for other data transmissions.
Example Devices:
- HD analog security cameras (HDCVI, HD-TVI, AHD)
- DVRs for legacy CCTV systems
š AOC (Audio over Coax)
Definition:
- Audio over Coax (AOC) allows audio signals to be transmitted alongside video signals through a single coaxial cable.
Common Usage:
- Frequently used in surveillance systems where audio recording is required in addition to video.
- Helps avoid running additional cables for microphones.
Advantages:
- Simplifies cabling by combining video and audio in a single cable.
- Ideal for CCTV systems that require audio monitoring.
Limitations:
- Typically limited to analog or HD analog systems.
- Not compatible with most IP-based systems.
Example Devices:
- CCTV cameras with built-in microphones
- DVRs with audio input
š§© Key Differences:
Aspect | POE (Power over Ethernet) | POC (Power over Coax) | AOC (Audio over Coax) |
---|---|---|---|
Cable Type | Ethernet (Cat5e, Cat6) | Coaxial (RG59, RG6) | Coaxial (RG59, RG6) |
Power Transmission | Yes | Yes | No |
Data/Signal Type | Data (IP), Power | Video, Power | Video, Audio |
Typical Use Cases | IP cameras, VoIP phones, Wi-Fi APs | Analog/HD analog cameras, legacy CCTV | Surveillance systems with audio recording |
Cable Length Limit | Up to 100m (328 ft) | Up to 500m (1640 ft) or more | Similar to POC |
Compatibility | Modern IP-based systems | Analog/HD analog systems | Analog/HD analog systems |
Advantages | Simplifies power and data over Ethernet | Utilises existing coax cables | Combines video and audio in one cable |
ā Summary of Use Cases:
- POE is best for modern IP-based systems that need data and power over a single Ethernet cable.
- POC is ideal for upgrading analog CCTV systems using existing coax cables, providing both video and power.
- AOC is useful for adding audio capabilities to coax-based surveillance systems.